Globular Cluster Sub-Populations: Understanding Galaxy Formation

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Globular cluster sub-populations: understanding galaxy formationJean P. BrodieGlobular clusters are relatively simple stellar populations consisting of tens of thousands of stars. These stars are characterized, to first order, by a single age and chemical composition. As fossil remnants of the early environments out of which galaxies formed they are powerful probes of the processes of galaxy formation and evolution. Young compact objects, apparently globular clusters caught in the process of forming have been detected in interacting galaxies. Dr. Brodie is conducting a systematic spectroscopic study with the Keck 10meter telescopes. In addition Dr. Bordie is complementing this work with infrared imaging. The spectroscopy is providing information on the ages and chemical abundances of stars in the globular clusters. The goal of the infrared imaging is the detection of sub populations of globular clusters in low luminosity ellipticals.